Nigeria’s sole survivor on the continent, Rivers United, defeated visiting KCCA FC 2-1 in a CAF Confederation Cup Group A clash on Tuesday evening.
FT: Rivers United 2-1 KCCA
— Rivers United FC (@RiversUnitedFC) June 20, 2017
Having lost the first leg a fortnight ago in Uganda, the Port Harcourt-based team knew anything short of victory at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium will jeopardise their chances of progressing to the knockout phase.
And they did exactly that, starting like a house on fire from the blast of the whistle.
Barely one minutes into the encounter, the host were already in front thanks to a sublime finish from Bernard Ovoke.
The heavy downpour which ensued prior to kick off meant both sides had very few goalscoring chances.
However, Rivers’ resilience and drive saw them continue to press their visitors.
Their persistence eventually paid off with Ovoke turning provider for Frederick Obomate in the 15th minute.
Having notched two goals, Rivers somewhat took their foot off the pedal, giving KCCA the opportunity to find a way back into the game.
Geofrey Serunkuma pounced on a poor defending from Stanley Eguma’s side to hand his team a lifeline in first half stoppage time.
But sadly, the second half saw few opportunities coming the way of both sides.
The victory takes Rivers to second place in the group with six points tied with FUS Rabat who have a game in hand.
They face Club African next at home in July.
